Quake-hit Christchurch bars will not be allowed to move their gaming machines to new premises, the Christchurch City Council has ruled.

At yesterday's meeting councillors refused to change its anti-gambling policy, rejecting a staff recommendation to make changes.

The Hospitality Association of New Zealand (Hanz) said the decision was a "slap in the face" for quake-affected businesses.

The council policy, which aims to cut the number of pokies in the city, does not allow businesses to transfer machine licences between venues.

The hospitality industry had sought an exception to the rule to allow bars that had been damaged in the earthquakes to transfer licences if they moved to a new venue.

A staff report presented to councillors recommended allowing an exception for venues that had been affected by "circumstances beyond the control of the property owner", such as an earthquake, fire or flood.

The report cited the "extraordinary circumstances" caused by the city's earthquakes as justification.

However, most councillors spoke against the recommendation, saying the council should hold firm to the policy.

Cr Peter Beck said the council had been given a chance to reaffirm its opposition to the harm caused by pokie machines.

"This is a time of opportunity, and we have an opportunity to do something good for our city."